Squamish First Nation is a large band on the west coast of British Columbia. The band is made up of the descendants of the Coast Salish peoples. A total of 3,292 people identify as members of Squamish First Nation and about 1,940 are living on-reserve. But when it comes to this First Nation, on-reserve doesn’t refer to one specific reserve. The members of Squamish First Nation live in 23 villages or reserves in the North Vancouver region. The total area designated reserve land is 8,849 hectares. It should be noted that Squamish First Nation are not the only aboriginal people living on these reserves and that many non-aboriginals also reside in these communities. Economic activity is varied. Some examples include a band-run marina, gas bar, shopping centre, sewage plant, driving range and trailer park.
Art and Squamish First Nation
Rattles and masks are extremely important to the Squamish culture. These items, made of carved wood, are used ceremonially to get rid of unwanted spirits and restore balance and harmony.
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The decoration of rattles and masks is part of this First Nation’s artistic heritage and many of its prominent artists today engage in these activities.
The Squamish Nation boasts many talented painters, carvers and illustrators. In fact, this First Nation has its own online art gallery where you can view and purchase works by artists of Squamish Nation. These artists include:
- Chuck Sam
- Jody Broomfield
- Donald Prince
- Stewart Jacobs
- Stan Joseph
- Russel Williams
- Rocky Mathias
- Rick Harry
- Nathan Lewis
- Les Nahanne
- Darren Yelton
- Jacob Lewis
- John Joseph
- Kurtis Antone
- Pete Charlie
- Ray Natrall
- Richard Billy
- Josh George
Just the Stats, Please
Statistics for 12 of the 23 reserves of Squamish First Nation. Other First Nations and non-aboriginal people also reside on these reserves, affecting numbers. Statistics for the other 11 reserves are not available.
(Source: Statistics Canada)
2006 population 3545
2001 population 30687
Population change (%) -10.8
Total private dwellings 1675
Private dwellings occupied by usual residents 1552
Population density per square kilometer 10.4
Land area (square km) 22.19